Characterization of Rubber Seed Shell and Kernel (Hevea brasiliensis) as Raw Materials for Co-liquefaction with Low Rank Coal

Abstract

sam-Abstract The present study focuses on characterization of two biomass samples namely rubber seed shell (RSS) and rubber seed kernel (RSK), as potential raw materials for co-liquefaction with Mukah Balingian low rank Malaysian coal. The physical and chemical characteristics of the biomass samples such as proximate and ultimate analyses, number of extractives, holocellulose and hemicelluloses content, calorific value, bio-oil yield and pyrolysis behavior were determined. Apparently, RSK was found to be more suitable as co-liquefaction material with Mukah Balingian coal due to its high carbon (64.5wt%), high volatile matter (92.4wt%) content, and high percent yield of bio-oil (33.1wt%). Further, the pyrolysis thermogram indicated that RSK contained higher lignified material than RSS. Moreover, RSK exhibits higher calorific value with comparison to RSS and coal.